if the situation warrants it

USAGE SUMMARY

"if the situation warrants it" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a situation in which a certain action is justified or necessary, if the conditions of the situation are appropriate. For example, "We will proceed with the project, if the situation warrants it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

"But if the situation warrants it and we need some extra firepower, I wouldn't hesitate.

The New York Times - Sports

It is a tool that we should be ready to use if the situation warrants it, and it would signal to the opposition that it is not alone.

The Guardian - Opinion

And because the document is always controlled at the server level, it means you can always revoke rights if the situation warrants it," I wrote at the time.

TechCrunch

Or block the lane, if the lane if the situation warrants it.

WikiHow

Use heavy equipment, if available, to create a larger firebreak if the situation warrants it.

WikiHow

Note other vital signs in your report if the situation warrants it.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

However, if you do feel ready and the situation warrants it, give forgiveness a try.

Huffington Post

Being pragmatic is a quality that I respect when the situation warrants it.

Huffington Post

Even though prudence requires inward thinking and examination, you should consider seeking external counsel when the situation warrants it.

WikiHow

Harrick told TechCrunch that the fund's size will allow IVP to write $40 to $60 million checks when it wants to but that it might be willing to put as much as $100 million into a company if the situation warranted it.

TechCrunch

Bundy confirmed that fire observation towers at the refuge were now occupied by marksmen, for "safety", and said he was "absolutely" prepared to use force if he thought the situation warranted it.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines what 'the situation' refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "if the situation warrants it" when the conditional nature is already implied. For instance, saying 'We'll take action if the situation warrants it, if necessary' is redundant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "if the situation warrants it" functions as an adverbial clause providing a condition for the main clause. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and commonly used. It modifies the verb by specifying under what conditions the action described by the verb will occur.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Wiki

34%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "if the situation warrants it" is a grammatically correct and useful way to express that an action is contingent on specific circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. Its use indicates that a particular course of action will be pursued only when the conditions justify or necessitate it. While not exceptionally common, it appears across various contexts, from news reporting and wikis to scientific and formal writing. To use this phrase effectively, ensure the context clearly defines what 'the situation' refers to. Avoid overuse in redundant contexts where the conditional nature is already implied.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if circumstances dictate

This alternative focuses on the circumstances leading to a decision, rather than the situation itself.

should the need arise

This alternative emphasizes the potential for a need to occur, prompting action.

if the occasion calls for it

This alternative is more focused on specific events or instances as triggers for action.

when conditions necessitate

This alternative is more formal, highlighting the compelling nature of the conditions.

as the case may be

This alternative suggests variability and adaptation depending on the specific scenario.

depending on the circumstances

This alternative highlights the dependence of an action on external conditions.

if deemed necessary

This alternative emphasizes a judgment call on whether an action is required.

should it be required

This alternative is a formal way of indicating a conditional requirement.

in appropriate situations

This alternative emphasizes that action is taken only when the context is right.

when justifiable

This alternative emphasizes the moral or rational basis for undertaking an action.

FAQs

How can I use "if the situation warrants it" in a sentence?

You can use "if the situation warrants it" to indicate that an action will be taken only when specific conditions are met. For example, "We will deploy additional resources "if the situation warrants it"".

What are some alternatives to "if the situation warrants it"?

Some alternatives include "should the need arise", "if deemed necessary", or "depending on the circumstances". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "if the situation warrants it" or "when the situation warrants it"?

The phrase "if the situation warrants it" implies a conditional action, whereas "when the situation warrants it" suggests a more deterministic relationship. Use "if" to indicate a possibility, and "when" to indicate a certainty.

What's the difference between "if the situation warrants it" and "as the situation warrants"?

"If the situation warrants it" suggests that an action may be taken, contingent on the situation. "As the situation warrants" suggests actions are continuously adapted based on the evolving circumstances.